Why Does God Allow Suffering?

The question of, "Why Does God Allow Suffering?" often arises in the aftermath of a natural disaster: floods, earthquakes, etc.

I've had people ask me, "If God is love, then why does He allow this?"

I tell them that I don't fully understand God's ways and never will here on earth, but I cling to the faith and confidence that I have in God's promises to us. I have peace because, as the Bible tells us, He knows what is best for us and that things happen for a reason. (I won't offer supporting Scripture at this time, but prayerfully, will do so in future discussions as part of this study.)

One notion that I hope to explore, at some point in the weeks to come, is that some folks want to ask about the nature of God only when it's convenient for them. 


I was once like this--I only wanted access and help from God when I needed Him. Much like buying something in a store, I wanted Him to be there for me when I needed Him, but other than that, didn't make the effort to get to know Him. When you don't know someone, it is difficult to understand their nature and how they operate.

While doing research for this study, I found an interesting discussion posted by the Rev. Bryan Findlayson of Pumpkin Cottage Ministry:

http://www.lectionarystudies.com/parish/apolo4.html

Rev. Findlayson, I would argue, offers good food for thought about God's intervention:

2. God will step in one day
     From time to time God has intervened in our world to straighten things out. Usually these interventions have to do with God revealing something to us about our present condition and about the coming new age ... this is God's world and we are his, and there will come a day when God will act to put all things right.
     The point I make is this. Nature will not always be as it is. There will come a day when it will be perfectly restored. At the moment nature groans and trembles awaiting its release. We too, at that time, will face God's restoring hand. This will involve judgement and everlasting destruction for the rebellious and blessing and everlasting life for those who have turned from their rebellion to follow Jesus.
     Therefore, to the question, "why doesn't God stop natural calamities, etc?" In the present moment we live in a totally free environment disjointed by our own rebellion, but God will not always leave it so. Soon he will act to put right all wrong. Pity help us if we are in the wrong when he sets about to put things right.

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Our Questions along the Way:

As we explore the Book of Job, let's make an effort to write down questions that we may have along the way. 

We can then take these questions, stop to pray for wisdom and reflect on what the text says to our current, personal situation.


--Have a blessed day!
Steve Kendall